I was asked to replicate the finish of the original wood sculpture, which was an interesting challenge. So, here were the steps: 1) Instead of sanding or smoothing the cast, cut in tons of tiny tools marks; 2) glaze with multiple layers of black and brown gloss; 3) after firing slightly below the recommended temp, sand the surface with 600 grit; 4) burnish with black oil; 5) burnish with metallic bronze and gold oil; 6) burnish with brown oil; 7) spray outside with clear matte finish. The "hair' is synthetic fur attached with silicon glue.

I've also started a new mug. This one is a chunky bamboo, reed, and seashell tumbler - something that Gilligan might have made for Thurston Howell III for his evening cocktail of coconut liquor.

I've been experimenting with glaze since I got my little electric kiln. Sometimes, the glazes come out pretty darn weird. I don't stock many glazes, but I do mix them or layer them. One thing I hit upon - out of necessity - is that you can fix or improve any exterior glaze with cold-painting and burnishing.